President Obama / Pablo Martinez Monsivais, AP

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

by David Jackson, USA TODAY

In an afternoon ceremony in the East Room, Obama welcomes the finalists for the 2014 National Teacher of the Year award, as well as the winner: Sean McComb, a high school English teacher from Maryland.

Obama will thank the teachers "for their hard work and dedication each and every day in the classroom," says the White House schedule.

Education Secretary Arne Duncan also will attend the event.

Earlier in the day, Obama has a private lunch with Vice President Biden, as well as other meetings with senior advisers.